How can I attract amphibians?

Q:

I live on the edge of Summer lake. We have a fresh water pond as well. The other day I found a salamander in my compost pile and I was delighted. I was curious if you have any ideas of native plants and habitate development to promote the return of frogs, and other amphibians. I think I hear that the toads have taken over the scene but I'd like to make sure I can restore the presence of more amphibians.

A:

Most people think of plants when it comes to habitat restoration for native fauna, however it is so much more. The idea of planting native flora comes from the two groups of animals that are driving the restoration craze - birds and beneficial insects. But you will notice the animals in these categories fly for the most part. Amphibian habitat restoration takes a different approach. Since they have to travel from breeding site (water) to feeding site over land, they need habitat corridors. These consist of strips of vegetation and cover (rocks, logs, etc.) that connect these two areas. And any roads that cut across these areas are a death trap for amphibians as well as reptiles. Any native plants that you chose will help, however I suppose those that attract insects (flowering) would be preferred as they will also provide a food source. The pond itself should have vegetation in the water to attach egg masses to as well as vegetation along the edge for hiding and mating. One of the best covers for amphibians are root masses. Think of what is left over after a tree is cut down. That stump and root ball if dug up and turned on its side provides excellent cover. As important as all of this is, if your are using pesticides in your garden, those will harm amphibians. That includes fungicides and herbicides. Reduce these chemicals if you want more amphibians. Lastly, do not stock the pond with tadpole-eating fish such as goldfish. Set your sights on providing hiding spaces and reducing chemicals and you will be successful.

Was this page helpful?

Related Content from OSU Extension

It's easy to attract birds to your yard, and there are many different ways to do so. This publication describes types of food, when to feed, types of bird feeders, where to locate feeders, and when to feed. Information about protecting and cleaning your feeder is also included.

This publication describes chickadees and their habits. It explains what type of habitat they need and how you can provide habitat in your yard. Includes sources of additional information and fun facts.

This publication describes hummingbirds and their habits. It explains what type of habitat they need and how you can provide habitat in your yard. Includes sources of additional information and fun facts.

This publication offers information on building materials, construction, when and where to place box, and competition for nesting space. Also suggests ways to protect from predators as well as maintenance of nest boxes.

This publication describes Pacific chorus frogs and their habits. It explains what type of habitat they need and how you can provide habitat in your yard. Includes sources of additional information and fun facts.

Discusses ways to reduce problems with unwanted wildlife around homes. Covers species from rodents to big game, bears, and cougars. Recommendations include eliminating food and shelter, trapping, hunting, fencing, and hazing.

An overview of mason bee basic biology and life cycle, and detailed descriptions of what is needed to start keeping mason bees, including desirable plants, nesting sites and types of nests, and caring for the cocoons over fall and winter. There are many helpful color photos throughout.

This publication describes the life cycle of butterflies and how to design your garden to meet the specific needs of butterflies. Includes a list of some of the most common butterfly species in the Pacific Northwest and their...

This publication describes dragonflies and their habits. It explains what type of habitat they need and how you can provide habitat in your yard. Includes sources of additional information and fun facts.

This publication is part of the Living on the Land series. It provides concise information on the value to farmers and ranchers of barn owls and American kestrels for rodent control, and ways to help build up local ...

Brian Tuck |
Dec 2012 |
OSU Extension Catalog

Have a Question? Ask an Expert!

Ask an Expert is a way for you to get answers from the Oregon State University Extension Service. We have experts in family and health, community development, food and agriculture, coastal issues, forestry, programs for young people, and gardening.